Sigma 150mm macro vs Sigma 105mm macro

Hi, I am trying to get a macro lens, and affordability is a real issue for me. I've been looking at & pricing used Sigma 150mm and 105mm F2.8 EX DG OS HSM lenses. Having no experience with macro lenses, I was hoping I could get some advice here as to the difference in the distances I can be from an object. How far away can I be from my object with each lens? Thank you in advance for any help.

That would be to get true life size reproduction, a.k.a. 1:1; but do note that you don't always want that, so you can place yourself even farther away when photographing skittish (or dangerous) subjects.

'The success of the second-rate is deplorable in itself; but it is more deplorable in that it very often obscures the genuine masterpiece. If the crowd runs after the false, it must neglect the true.' —Arthur MachenWhy 'The Histogram' Sux

I've thought about that, too - so far the least expensive 150mmI've found is about $430 including shipping. Since I do 99% of my photography hand held, I thought the OS would be a better bet for me. (especially since I'm a caffeine addicted old lady that can get shaky - haha) Does OS make as much of a difference for hand held as I am led to believe? And thank you for responding to my question, I'm glad to hear it's a great lens!

If you read the manufacturer's small print, you'll find out that their boasted of image stabilisation is useful only for subjects farther than a metre away; so, for closer close-ups and/or real macro (1:1), the IS/OS/VR is of little use. Either use a tripod or flash, or both.

'The success of the second-rate is deplorable in itself; but it is more deplorable in that it very often obscures the genuine masterpiece. If the crowd runs after the false, it must neglect the true.' —Arthur MachenWhy 'The Histogram' Sux

Thank you - you've been a great help! I have a long way to go in learning all the terminology, and while trying to decide on a used macro lens I was just getting more confused. I really appreciate you two for taking the time to advise me

Alveric wrote in post #17922540If you read the manufacturer's small print, you'll find out that their boasted of image stabilisation is useful only for subjects farther than a metre away; so, for closer close-ups and/or real macro (1:1), the IS/OS/VR is of little use. Either use a tripod or flash, or both.

For my 100L I only count on about 1 stop for macro distances. Not sure about the OS but I would imagine it's about the same.

I have decided to go for a non-OS lens, largely because I will be able to afford one sooner than an OS lens - it will give me a chance to go through the learning curve and see how much I'll actually use it (however I think I will use a macro quite a bit) while saving for a better lens should I opt for one. Admittedly I am making my decision based partially on how impatient I am to play, but all your advice and comments have been a huge help in making my decision too. Thanks! (and getting used to taking the time to use a tripod will be a big, beneficial discipline for me, lol)

For any particular level of magnification at the sensor the working distance for the longer lens should be 1.43× further away (150/105). Or if you want to consider it the other way around, 0.7× closer for the shorter lens. The ratio of the focal lengths should always be the same as the ratio difference between the distances when the subject sizes are the same.

Registered members may log in to forums and access all the features: full search, image upload, follow forums, own gear list and ratings, likes, more forums, private messaging, thread follow, notifications, own gallery, all settings, view hosted photos, own reviews, see more and do more... and all is free. Don't be a stranger - register now and start posting!

COOKIES DISCLAIMER: This website uses cookies to improve your user experience. By using this site, you agree to our use of cookies and to our privacy policy. Privacy policy and cookie usage info.

Latest registered member is Grandma57773 guests, 323 members onlineSimultaneous users record so far is 15144, that happened on Nov 22, 2018

Photography-on-the.net Digital Photography Forums is the website for photographers and all who love great photos, camera and post processing techniques, gear talk, discussion and sharing. Professionals, hobbyists, newbies and those who don't even own a camera -- all are welcome regardless of skill, favourite brand, gear, gender or age. Registering and usage is free.